This paper is a bio-bibliography of Cynthia Rylant, exploring both her life and writings. The biography examines events in her life which have led to her development as a critically and internationally acclaimed children's author, with special emphasis placed on her childhood, since so many of her works have been inspired by her memories of those early years. Biographical and autobiographical materials published through February 1993 have been used. The bibliography, which includes all of her materials published in the United States through December 1992 (33 titles), is annotated; prominent awards or honors and selective reviews are included. The literature review supports Cynthia Rylant as an author destined to become a classic children's author and well-deserving of in-depth study. (Contains 16 references.) (Author)